Jeddah, January 23 (QNA) - With Qatari participation, Diriyah Biennale Foundation inaugurated the Islamic Arts Biennale 2023 at the Western Hajj Terminal at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah.
The Islamic Arts Biennale 2023, which comes under the theme "Awwal Bait (The First House)," and lasts from Jan. 23 until April 23, represents a platform that reflects the experience of the annual arrival of millions of pilgrims from all over the world to perform the Hajj, through exploring deep into the Islamic knowledge. With almost 280 artifacts borrowed from local and international institutions, the Islamic Arts Biennale includes artworks for around 40 artists which will be presented through a unique sensory experience aimed at raising awareness and urging the visitors to meditate on the rituals that guide people, connect them, and generate a sense of belonging among them. In addition, the Islamic Arts Biennale provides unique opportunities for learning, researching, and looking deeper into this kind of art, and the valuable artistic symposiums it will provide.
The Biennale is held on a 118,000 m2 with artists from Arab and foreign artists participating in it, while senior Saudi officials, intellectuals, and artists attended the inaugural.
Through four galleries, two pavilions, and the AlMadar exhibition, the Biennale represents a journey for the renewal of feelings and memories, as the location holds a special significance represented in being the starting point of the journey of millions of Muslims from all around the world to perform their Hajj, urging them to recall the history, culture, and the heritage of the place in a journey that connects the past, the present, and the future.
Qatar National Library (QNL) is participating in the AlMadar exhibition and will loan 12 items from the Heritage Library, representing Islam across different parts of the world during the 17th to 19th century.
Commenting on the occasion, Director of Strategic Planning and Projects at Qatar National Library Hind Al Khulaifi said: "We are honored to participate in the inaugural edition of the Islamic Arts Biennale through the AlMadar exhibition. This is a great opportunity for the Library to showcase the rich Islamic arts and cultural heritage that we have in our collection. By participating in this exhibition, we not only promote the appreciation and understanding of Islamic arts and culture but also foster the exchange of knowledge and ideas across the Islamic world."
"We invite the public to join us in this exhibition and take part in the programs that we have planned for people to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Islamic arts and culture," she added.
(QNA)